Research Intern

Summary

Join GiveDirectly's research team as an intern and contribute to the evaluation of their ambitious cash transfer program in Malawi. This multi-year initiative, the largest randomized controlled trial (RCT) on unconditional cash transfers, involves quantitative and qualitative data analysis, research instrument design, and data collection oversight. You will work closely with various teams, including program, tech, and data teams, to ensure smooth execution and collaboration. The internship is for 3 months, with a possibility of extension, and can be based in Malawi or remotely from select countries. The role requires strong analytical skills, experience with data analysis tools, and excellent communication skills. Compensation is hourly, varying based on education and experience.

Requirements

• Exceptional alignment with GiveDirectly Values and active demonstration of our core competencies: emotional intelligence, problem solving, project management, follow-through, and fostering inclusivity
• We welcome and strongly encourage applications from candidates who have personal or professional experience in the low-income and/or historically marginalized communities that we serve
• English
• 2-3+ years of experience in research, impact evaluation, or a related analytical role
• Strong ability to translate complex research data into compelling narratives for external audiences, particularly donors
• Familiarity with impact evaluation methods and the ability to interpret and summarize research findings
• Familiarity with data collection tools (SurveyCTO, Commcare) data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Stata, R, Python) and data visualization tools (e.g. Adobe, Canva, Flourish)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills - particularly critical is strong writing free of jargon, but the strongest candidates will be able to communicate using a variety of media, including presentations, charts, etc
• Strong project management skills and the ability to juggle multiple workstreams
• Experience with both quantitative and qualitative data analysis

Responsibilities

• Conduct statistical analyses and translate findings into actionable insights
• Perform regular statistical analyses on M&E data (Midline & Endline results) to check data quality and identify any field data collection problems
• Prepare visualizations and summary decks to support internal and external communication
• Provide analytical support on enrollment data (tracking progress, forecasting delays)
• Regularly check incoming surveys and monitor survey quality
• Identify, flag, and diagnose data-quality problems
• Collaborate with Tech and Data teams to maintain and improve data pipelines
• Analyze qualitative data to inform program design and evaluation
• Conduct qualitative analyses (interview coding, thematic synthesis)
• Develop reports summarizing insights from qualitative research (Phase 2 and Phase 3 pilot evaluations)
• Translate qualitative insights clearly for internal program adjustments and donor reporting and share with the programs team
• Create robust tools for data collection aligned with research objectives
• Develop indicators for quantitative surveys (Pulse, Midline, Endline) and ensure that they are programmed and tested with tech
• Implement survey revisions and updates in collaboration with the Tech team
• Design qualitative research instruments and interview guides for pilot evaluations
• Manage logistics to ensure smooth execution of field research. Lead operational management and methodological rigor of survey execution
• Generate and manage monthly field rosters for quantitative data collection - specifically pulse surveys and M&E Khongoni endline
• Monitor and adjust sampling approaches for pilots, M&E, and pulse surveys
• Support logistical management with the field team (transport, compensation, CommCare platform)
• Ensure alignment and efficient collaboration across research, program, and technical teams
• Manage and resolve staffing and operational challenges across research projects
• Coordinate closely with Program, Tech, and Data teams on enrollment schedules and field operations
• Advise and support on pilot study design, implementation, and evaluations (Phase 2 and Phase 3)
• Facilitate clear, regular cross-team communication to align research goals and operational realities

Preferred Qualifications

Chichewa

Benefits

• Intern pay will be hourly, and rate of pay will depend on level of education and experience
• The salary for this internship is as follows for U.S.-based interns
• Undergraduate student: $19.00/hour
• Recent graduate: $22.00/hour
• Master’s degree student: $29.00/hour
• If not U.S.-based, there will be an adjustment to the hourly amount based on cost of living and local market rates of the country in which candidates are based